Data Center R&D Engineer Electrical @ OpenAI
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About The Team
OpenAI, in close collaboration with our capital partners, is building the world’s most advanced AI infrastructure ecosystem. The Data Center Engineering team drives strategy, develops innovative engineering solutions, partners with research teams, and creates reference designs to enable rapid global expansion.
About The Role
As a Data Center R&D Engineer Electrical, you will design and deliver next-generation power, cooling, and hardware solutions for high-density rack deployments in some of the largest data centers globally. You will work closely with stakeholders from research, site selection, design, construction, commissioning, hardware engineering, deployment, operations, and global partners to bring OpenAI’s infrastructure vision to life.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee electrical, mechanical, controls, and telemetry design and operations across project phases.
- Develop, test, and implement procedures from design through commissioning and deployment.
- Perform validation testing of critical equipment and hardware with vendors.
- Lead the buildout of an R&D lab including equipment selection and staffing plans.
- Select and manage engineering tools (CAD, CFD, PLM, etc.) and collaborate with external vendors.
- Provide technical direction ensuring safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.
- Manage vendor relationships and ensure adherence to performance and operational standards.
Qualifications
- 20+ years of experience in data center design, operations, and critical systems maintenance.
- Proven leadership in designing, commissioning, and operating large data centers.
- Expertise in infrastructure systems (power, cooling, controls, networking) and operational workflows.
- Hands-on experience with critical infrastructure equipment and testing protocols.
- Experience in lab development, equipment selection, and facility operations.
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering required; advanced degree and PE certification preferred.
Preferred Skills
- Expertise in equipment design, agency certification, and validation testing.
- Experience in global, matrixed organizations and multi-site operations.
- Skilled in vendor negotiations and supply chain management.
- Familiarity with sustainable and energy-efficient data center design principles.
About OpenAI
OpenAI is an AI research and deployment company committed to ensuring that general-purpose artificial intelligence benefits all of humanity. The company values safety, diverse perspectives, and collaborative innovation.
Key skills/competency
Data Centers, R&D, Electrical, Validation, Commissioning, Lab Development, CAD, Vendor Management, Infrastructure, Regulatory Compliance
How to Get Hired at OpenAI
🎯 Tips for Getting Hired
- Customize Resume: Highlight data center and R&D experience.
- Review Job Details: Understand OpenAI’s technical requirements.
- Research OpenAI: Study company culture and infrastructure projects.
- Prepare for Interviews: Focus on technical design and vendor collaboration.